An autopsy rules that an Atlanta church deacon’s death during his arrest was a homicide

A recent autopsy has determined that the demise of a 62-year-old church deacon, Johnny Hollman, on August 10th, which occurred during his arrest involving an electric shock administered by an Atlanta police officer, should be classified as a homicide. Nevertheless, the medical examiner’s report also indicates that underlying heart disease played a contributing role in his passing.

The incident unfolded when Johnny Hollman became unresponsive while undergoing arrest following a minor automobile collision. In response to Hollman’s refusal to sign a traffic ticket, the officer employed an electrical stun gun and subsequently handcuffed him.

Subsequent to this tragic event, the city has revised its policies. Officers are now permitted to record “refusal to sign” on a traffic ticket, eliminating the necessity for immediate arrest in such instances. The revised policy also mandates officers to inform drivers that their signature does not imply guilt but merely signifies receipt of the ticket and acknowledgment of the court date.

In light of these developments, the Atlanta City Council recently called for the release of video footage from the incident. Concurrently, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), responsible for scrutinizing the officer’s actions, has requested that the Atlanta Police Department refrain from releasing the video until the GBI’s investigation is concluded.

The tragic passing of Johnny Hollman has amplified dissatisfaction with the police among some residents of Atlanta, particularly in relation to a proposal to construct a public safety training center.

Dr. Melissa Sims-Stanley, the medical examiner, arrived at her conclusion after reviewing the video footage and engaging in a discussion with a GBI investigator. Her assessment suggests that Hollman became unresponsive following the application of the stun gun.

Arnitra Fallins, Hollman’s daughter, has recounted that her father was returning home after purchasing fried chicken and an apple pie when he was involved in a collision with another vehicle. Hollman contacted the police to investigate the accident. However, tensions escalated when the authorities determined that Hollman was at fault and attempted to issue him a citation. Hollman’s refusal to sign the ticket led to the officer’s attempt to effectuate an arrest, culminating in a physical struggle between Hollman and the officer. It was during this altercation that Officer Kiran Kimbrough administered the shock. Officer Kimbrough is presently on administrative leave pending the investigation.

Attorneys representing the Hollman family contend that it was Officer Kimbrough who initiated the physical confrontation after Hollman requested the presence of a police sergeant at the scene, as he disagreed with the officer’s assessment of fault. According to attorney Mawuli Davis, Hollman can be heard pleading for the officer to cease his actions.

Arnitra Fallins, who was on the phone with her father at the time of the incident, rushed to the scene upon hearing his cries for assistance. She recounted the emotional toll of witnessing the events unfold, particularly after reviewing the body camera footage. Although the video remains unreleased to the public, it has been made available to family members. Lawyers representing Hollman’s family have raised questions about how the video’s release could potentially hinder the ongoing investigation, given that the GBI has already conducted interviews with witnesses.

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• [Atlanta church deacon’s death ruled homicide after arrest](Insert Link)
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• [Family Allegations in Johnny Hollman’s Case](Insert Link)
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